Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro is the flagship of 2019, which is still relevant thanks to the powerful hardware and support for modern networks. SIM-maps: where is the tray, how to open it correctly, and why does the phone not see the network after installation? In this article, we will discuss the process from A to Z - taking into account all the nuances of the model.
Itβs important to understand that the Mi 9 Pro supports two nano-SIMs (or one SIM+ microSD card in a hybrid slot), but the trayβs location is not obvious to beginners. Weβll show you how to avoid typical mistakes, from damaging contacts to improperly cropping the card. And if you just bought a used phone, hereβs tips for checking the slot for performance.
This article will be useful not only for Mi 9 Pro owners, but also for those considering buying this smartphone, we will compare it with other Xiaomi models for the ease of installing the SIM, as well as give recommendations on choosing an operator for a maximum speed of 4G/5G.
Preparation: what kind SIM-Choose a map for Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro
Before inserting the card, make sure it fits the format. Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro supports only nano-SIM (size 12.3 Γ 8.8 mm). If you have a card of a different format (micro or standard), it will have to be cropped or replaced in the cabin of the operator.
Here are the key points when choosing:
- π± Format: nano-SIM only. Micro-SIM or standard card won't work without an adapter (but slot adapters aren't used!).
- π Network: The phone supports 4G LTE (before Cat.16) and 5G (in the Chinese version. 5G It doesnβt work yet, but itβs better to choose for the future. SIM VoLTE-enabled.
- π Hybrid slot: You can use either two nano-SIMs or one SIM + microSD (up to 256 GB) two simultaneous SIM And memory cards are impossible.
- πΆ Operator: for maximum Internet speed in Russia, we recommend MegaFon or Tele2 (Best LTE-Band coverage 7/20).
If you buy a used phone, check if the contacts in the slot will bend. To do this, light a flashlight - all 6 contact springs should be smooth and shiny. Bending contacts can cause network problems.
Where is the slot for SIM-Maps in Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro
Unlike many modern smartphones where the tray is located on the side, the Mi 9 Pro is on the top end of the case.This unusual decision can be confusing, especially if you go from Samsung or iPhone devices, where the slot is usually on the right.
To find the tray:
- Take the phone in your right hand with the screen.
- Look at the top end (where the headphone jack is, if you have one in your version).
- To the left of the 3.5mm connector (or in the middle if there is no connector), you will see a small hole with a metal rim - this is the SIM slot.
The photo below shows the exact location (clickable to zoom in):
β οΈ Note: Do not confuse the hole for SIM-The microphone is located to the right of the USB-Type C and has a mesh grid. The slot for the card is a smooth hole with a metal ring.
If you can't find the slot, you may have a case on your phone that covers it, so take off the case and look at the end again.
Step-by-step: how to open the tray and insert SIM-map
Now, to the process itself, you'll need a paper clip (or a special key for the SIM that came with the phone), and if you don't have a paper clip, you can use an open-ended stationery brace or a thin needle, but you can be careful not to damage the mechanism.
Follow this algorithm:
Discharge your phone to 50% (in case of resetting)
Turn off the device (required!)
Prepare a paper clip or key for the SIM
Make sure you have the right sized nano-SIM.-->
- Turn off your phone. It's a must-do! By inserting a SIM when your device is on, you risk damaging your contacts or causing your modem to malfunction.
- Insert the paperclip into the hole on the top end and press until you click. The tray should extend 2-3 mm.
- Take the tray out with your fingers carefully. Don't pull it out, because there's a spring mechanism inside that can be damaged.
- Put it down. SIM-The map is in the tray with the contacts down. For the Mi 9 Pro, there are two positions: π SIM 1 (main) - closer to the edge of the tray. π SIM 2 or microSD β second position (hybrid slot).
Put the tray back in.
Turn on the phone.
If the phone doesnβt see the network after turning on, try:
- π Reset the device.
- πΆ Manually select the operator in the settings (Settings) β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Choice of network).
- π§ Check if your contacts are contaminated SIM or in a slot (wipe with an alcohol napkin).
π‘
If the tray is not moving, don't use excessive force! Try swaying the paperclip slightly left-right or using a thinner tool. At the very least, contact the service center - the mechanism may have jammed.
What to do if Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro does not see SIM-map
Sometimes, even when installed correctly, the phone doesn't recognize SIM, and the reasons can be software or hardware, and we'll look at the most common cases and their solutions.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The phone doesn't see any SIMs. | Slot or contacts damaged | Check the tray for bent contacts, if there is damage, carry to the service. |
| Only one SIM can see. | Incorrectly installed second card | Reset the SIM in the tray, make sure it lies down the contacts. |
| No network, but SIM is recognized | Failure in modem settings | Reset network settings: Settings β System β Settings Reset β Reset settings Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth. |
| He's always asking. PUK-code | SIM-card blocked | Enter PUK (specified on SIM plastic) or contact the operator. |
| 5G is not working (in supported regions) | There is no firmware with 5G support | Update the software to the latest version or install custom firmware (for example, xiaomi.eu). |
If none of these methods worked, check if your Mi 9 Pro is a βChineseβ version with limited frequency support. For example, models for China (MI 9 Pro 5G) may not work with Russian carriers on a 4G network on some bands.
β οΈ Note: If you are using a hybrid microSD slot, make sure the memory card is formatted into a microSD slot. FAT32 exFAT. NTFS It is not supported and the phone will not see the drive.
Comparison with other Xiaomi models: where it is more convenient to insert SIM
Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro is not the most convenient smartphone to replace SIM-cards β the top slot location requires care, especially if youβre doing it for the first time.For comparison, in newer models (such as the Xiaomi 12 Pro or Redmi Note 11), the tray has been moved to the side edge, which makes access easier.
Hereβs how things are with other popular Xiaomi devices:
- π± Xiaomi Mi 11: slot on the right, opens easily, supports two nano-SIMs without a hybrid slot.
- π± Redmi Note 10 Pro: Slot on the left, hybrid (SIM + microSD), but the tray is stronger.
- π± POCO X3 Pro: slot on the right, but requires more effort when extracting (frequent user complaint).
- π± Xiaomi Mi Mix 3: Magnetic tray (opens without a paper clip) SIM It is less frequent due to complex design.
If you change often SIM-If you are traveling, the Mi 9 Pro may seem uncomfortable, in which case it is worth considering buying an adapter for eSIM (if your carrier supports virtual cards) to avoid mechanical wear and tear of the slot.
How to check if your Mi 9 Pro supports 5G?
Frequent errors when installing SIM in Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to network problems.-5 They were slapped and explained how to avoid them.
- SIM installation with the phone on, which can cause modem initialization to fail, and always turn off the device before removing or installing the card.
- Use of inappropriate tools: Needles, toothpicks or knives can damage the tray mechanism, use only a paper clip or the original key.
- SIM misorientation. If the card is up, the phone won't see it. The tray usually has a diagram showing the correct position.
- Excessive force. If the tray is not pushed, don't push hard, you can break the spring. Try gently swaying the paperclip or using WD-40 (1 drop) to lubricate the mechanism.
- Ignoring contact hygiene: Dust or oxidation on SIM contacts or slots can cause network problems.
If after all the manipulations the phone still does not see SIM, check whether the flight mode is activated or the network lock in the settings. It is also worth updating the firmware - sometimes SIM-recognition bugs are fixed in new versions of MIUI.
π‘
If after installing the SIM, the phone stopped turning on, most likely you damaged the slot contacts or closed the board.
How to extract SIM-Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro card if tray jammed
It's not uncommon for the tray to go out, especially if the phone has been repaired or crashed.
Method 1: Careful removal of the paper clip
- π§ Take a thicker paperclip or needle.
- π Light a flashlight into the hole and try to feel the mechanism.
- π‘ Press at different angles (not straight, but slightly sideways) until you hear a click.
Method 2: Using duct tape
- Stick a piece of tape to the end of the tray (if it protrudes a little).
- Pull the scotch carefully until the tray is pushed out.
Method 3: Disassembling the phone (extreme case)
If the tray is seriously jammed, you'll have to take off the back cover.
- Heat the edge of the phone with a hair dryer (to soften the glue).
- Tap the lid with a plastic spatula (start at the corner next to the volume button).
- Disconnect the battery plume and carefully pull out the tray with your hands.
β οΈ Warning: Disassembling the phone will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and may damage the plumes!
If none of these things work, tap your phone (screen down!) slightly on a soft surface (like your palm) and sometimes it helps to move the jammed mechanism.